Former Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and Varun Aaron have sparked speculation about the potential inclusion of legendary wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni in India’s T20 World Cup squad. Despite Dhoni’s international retirement nearly five years ago, his impressive form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) has reignited the debate.
Aaron, speaking to Star Sports, suggested that Dhoni could be a “wildcard entry” in the squad, labeling it as “the wildest card.” Pathan echoed the sentiment, stating that if Dhoni expressed a desire to play in the T20 World Cup, “no one will deny him that chance.”
Former India opener Virender Sehwag has also highlighted Dhoni’s exceptional form in the IPL. “MS Dhoni has a strike-rate of over 250 and doesn’t have an average because he hasn’t been dismissed yet,” Sehwag remarked on Cricbuzz.
However, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has acknowledged the challenges of persuading Dhoni to return to competitive cricket. “It will be hard to convince MS, although he is coming to the US, to do something else. He is into golf now,” Sharma said.
In IPL 2024, Dhoni has scored 91 runs off just 35 balls in six unbeaten innings, scoring at a strike rate of 260. His impressive performances have raised questions about whether he could still contribute to the Indian team at the highest level.
While Dhoni’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad remains a hypothetical possibility, his form and the support of former players have fueled speculation. The final decision will ultimately rest with the selectors and the team management.
